The YA Revolution: Reinventing Sci-Fi/Fantasy for a new generation12:00 PM – Richmond B

For the past several years, sci-fi/fantasy has enjoyed a renewed popularity in mainstream culture, as Y/A writers reinvent the genre for younger audiences. This panel will consider the contemporary phenomenon of Y/A sci-fi/fantasy: its history, its hallmarks, as well as some of the reasons for its newfound popularity. The future of sci-fi/fantasy will also be considered, as panelists speculate on the impact of this literary movement on the genre.

Join the Toronto Steampunk Society in an afternoon charity tea to benefit Autism Ontario and enjoy a selection of teas from Galaxy Teas. Experience a tea or parasol duel. Poetry, a variety of food, & prizes!

A generation raised on Harry Potter, the Hunger Games, and other tales of dystopian science fiction is uniquely positioned to deal with a world in which long-held global alliances seem posed to break down and the threat of nuclear war is dangerously close to making the leap from fiction to fact. What happens when real life becomes stranger than fiction? How does fandom shape our politics and political activism?

SUNDAY:

Disrupting the Narrative
11:00 AM – Richmond CD

Science fiction and fantasy has the potential to transform our worldview. The inclusion of alternate perspectives and diverse characters help us to re-examine the past, present or future, in our universe or beyond. Inserting new experiences into old narratives shows the limitless potential of stories to inspire us. This panel will look at stories that shake up our perspective, from Steampunk and alternate history to dystopian fantasy.

The tragic loss of Carrie Fisher affected Star Wars fans across the world. This panel pays tribute to a great lady and a beloved princess and speculates on what the Star Wars universe might look like without her.